CBC (Complete Blood Count) Abbreviation
What is a CBC?
CBC stands for Complete Blood Count, one of the most commonly ordered blood tests. It provides important information about the types and numbers of cells in your blood.
Components Measured
- RBC (Red Blood Cell Count): Number of red blood cells
- WBC (White Blood Cell Count): Number of white blood cells
- HGB (Hemoglobin): Protein that carries oxygen
- HCT (Hematocrit): Percentage of blood volume that is red blood cells
- PLT (Platelet Count): Number of platelets (cells that help with clotting)
Why It's Important
CBC results help diagnose conditions like:
- Anemia (low red blood cells)
- Infection or inflammation (high white blood cells)
- Clotting disorders (abnormal platelet counts)
Reference Ranges
Each component has a normal reference range. Results outside these ranges may indicate health issues that require further investigation.
Related Terms
- Reference Range: The expected range of values for healthy individuals
- HCT: Hematocrit
- HGB: Hemoglobin